Article

PURPOSE: To describe the prevalence of secondary health conditions (SHCs)
(urinary tract and bowel problems, pressure ulcers, spasticity, musculoskeletal
and neuropathic pain, sexual dysfunction, respiratory and cardiovascular
disorders) in persons with long-term spinal cord injury (SCI),
and to explore the
impact of SHCs on fitness, active lifestyle, participation and well-being.
METHODS: A time since injury (TSI)-stratified cross-sectional study among 300
persons between 28- and 65-year-old with a SCI for at least 10 years. Strata of
TSI are 10-19, 20-29, and 30 or more years. All eight Dutch rehabilitation
centres with a SCI unit will participate. Participants will be invited for a
1-day visit to the rehabilitation centre for an aftercare check-up by the local
SCI rehabilitation physician (neurological impairment, SHCs and management),
physical tests by a trained research assistant (lung function, wheelchair skills,
physical capacity), and they will be asked to complete a self-report questionnaire in advance. RESULTS: Not applicable. CONCLUSION: This study will
provide knowledge on the health status and functioning of persons aging with SCI
living in the Netherlands. This knowledge will help us to develop predictive
models for the occurrence of SHCs and to formulate guidelines to improve health
care for persons with long-term SCI.

Langue : ANGLAIS